In every area of our life, we take pride in being unique and forward-thinking, whether it's impressing friends with a glorious dessert at a dinner party or buying an edgy pair of heels.

But perhaps one area we're less experimental with is weddings. Bridalwear is typically white, dainty, angelic... It's beautiful, but it's become a uniform for The Big Day. Millions of brides have stepped into those ivory satin shoes.

That's why we decided to delve into the world of Instagram hashtags #alternativebride #unconventionalbride and #offbeatbride, where hundreds of women are sharing photos of how they've said "no" to tired old tradition in favour of something fresh and original for their wedding day.

From coloured dresses to quirky prints and flat shoes, these brides are paving the way for a revolutionary (and gloriously individual) new world of wedding style:

You only need to take a quick look at Nicole Freed's Instagram account to know glasses are an intrinsic accessory to her identity. Why lose them on one of her most special days? Her white translucent frames were a perfect fit.